Beauty Warriors chatted to Dr. Fourie from Anti-Aging Art in Houghton about the benefits of PRP. Keep reading to find out if this anti-aging treatment is for you.

What is PRP?

PRP is an acronym for Platelet Rich Plasma.  This is the magic component of blood, a golden yellow liquid that contains all the growth factors that heal and regenerate our bodies.

Why has PRP become so popular in recent years?

This is ultimately the treatment that will make your skin get younger month by month, instead of older.  When used in aesthetic medicine, we can target any skin or body concerns by applying this wonderful substance, from your own body.  When used correctly and with the right techniques the treatment is always effective, always safe and provides excellent results, without adding anything foreign to the mix.  There is very little discomfort and very little downtime.

What should I ask before a PRP treatment for my face?

Make sure that the technique used is correct and that the doctor treating you has adequate experience to decide what the best application method would be according to your concerns and lifestyle.  I recommend activated PRP, where kits are used to concentrate the growth factors to precisely studied ideal amounts for regeneration.  Not all PRP is equal. Make sure you know whether a doctor or therapist will be doing the treatment and that you are comfortable with whoever is working on your face.

At what age can one start using PRP on their face?

The usual beauty or anti-aging treatments can be started in your twenties, provided it is done appropriately.  From 30 onwards, it is a must for everyone who wants to invest in their skin.  For scars and burns, we can start treatment in children already.

What is a vampire facial?

The connotation between blood-sucking vampires and blood being drawn and used on your face is the reason for the name.  Keep in mind that it is not that gory. The product we end up using is only a small component of the blood and is not even red. Also, we draw blood with a needle, no fangs come out 😉

Is there a high risk of infection?

Not at all.  Aseptic technique is used at all times and the PRP itself contains anti-infective white blood cells as well

What are my expected results on the face and how many treatments would I require?

The whole face and skin rejuvenation and regeneration. This translates visibly to radiance, glow, smooth skin, less textural problems, improvement in blemishes, plumper and firmer skin with reduction in looseness and wrinkles, improvement in skin tone, pigment, and scars.  The skin will look visibly younger and radiant.  Big promises, but the correct PRP preparation method and technique most definitely deliver all this. Treatments should be done every 4-6 months for the best results.